News &amp; Announcementshttp://www.aenweb.ca/taxonomy/term/212/all
enPublic Risk For Oilsands Mines Clean-up Costs Must Be Removedhttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/public-risk-oilsands-mines-clean-costs-must-be-removed
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<a href="http://www.albertawilderness.ca">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">21 Jun 2017</span> </div>
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<p>
Albertans face unacceptable risks from unfunded oil sands mine clean-up costs. Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) believes it is time for tar sands mine operators to pay full security for their clean-up obligations and remove this burden from the public.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;While bitumen mine operators still have strong cash flows, Alberta regulators must require full financial security for their clean-up obligations,&rdquo; says Carolyn Campbell, AWA Conservation Specialist. &ldquo;The current rules allow most payments to be made&nbsp;after&nbsp;a mine&rsquo;s main revenue-earning years have passed. Couple that with an uncertain industry outlook (a recent&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/218503bdef&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFDC_N91rNo07XoRHXi7dL01i21GA" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/218503bdef" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;outlines how low-cost transportation alternatives could cause a collapse in oil prices in as little as four years), we believe the risks for Albertans and for the Lower Athabasca River are unacceptable.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Oil sands mines are situated in an area of outstanding ecological importance, along Alberta&rsquo;s lower Athabasca River where major North American migratory bird flyways meet. Many unsolved mine reclamation problems still remain, including re-creating peat wetlands that once made up half the natural landscape; safely treating tailings ponds (234 km<sup>2</sup>&nbsp;area and 1.1 billion m<sup>3</sup>&nbsp;volume at the end of 2014, and growing); and cleaning up shallow groundwater affected by mine operations.</p>
<p>
The Alberta Energy Regulator&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/067a3fa8c0&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFzuAPAUFhpDgP4DxmvSiVy6JpLJA" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/067a3fa8c0" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;that oil sands and coal mine cleanup liabilities totaled $23 billion in June 2016, 17 times greater than the $1.4 billion posted by operators to pay for cleanup. Alberta coal mine operators are already required to provide full financial security on their closure liabilities. The current rules enjoyed by oil sands mine operators defer most financial security until shortly before the end of mine life, leaving the public to subsidize the default risk. Two recent examples reinforce this risk: the billion dollar public reclamation costs from the NWT&rsquo;s bankrupt&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/4fb318aa48&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFFx93658tehKGqjfsSywlvCwinyg" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/4fb318aa48" target="_blank">Giant gold mine</a>, and the recent appeal court ruling on Alberta&rsquo;s bankrupt&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/36582d0ee5&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFn8Q_0AgxVjqEamPtpL8brsMC_wA" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/36582d0ee5" target="_blank">Redwater Energy Corp</a>., which prioritized other creditors&rsquo; claims over Alberta&rsquo;s environment regulations.</p>
<p>
University of Alberta economist Andrew Leach&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/3db52a0699&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFKbuAzWJSgwtyMQjIiYBHeyF-iIw" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/3db52a0699" target="_blank">critiqued</a>&nbsp;the current security regime at its outset in 2011: &ldquo;the Mine Financial Security Program (MFSP) continues down a wrong-headed path&hellip; Reclamation liabilities start building up well before bitumen production begins, and the security deposits made by companies should match these liabilities, otherwise taxpayers are on the hook for them.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Alberta must quickly transition to full financial security collection while cash flows for Alberta&rsquo;s oil sands mine operators remain high. On April 26, 2017, Suncor&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/fbbc51603a&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHpNcq89sbrrqM3oEY754YFYpnLKg" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/fbbc51603a" target="_blank">reported</a>&nbsp;oil sands operating costs of $22.55/barrel and&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/7145a0ee31&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFfmWJlQBuejm36AhnYn_Bkav8IEQ" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/7145a0ee31" target="_blank">started</a>&nbsp;a $2 billion share buyback program. Imperial Oil&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/787fcbc002&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFFrysF68tVZIHK67XK44vFihXOoA" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/787fcbc002" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;a significant increase in its operations cash flow on&nbsp;April 28. On&nbsp;May 4, CNRL&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/92e8ce01d6&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1498241269766000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFgcHqxrPbOC2Se1jesMcyASNFrmw" href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?AlbertaWildernessAss/8a18c9c6ae/c91c1c6d0e/92e8ce01d6" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;a substantial increase in the size and sustainability of its cash flow, with oil sands mine operating costs of approx. $22/barrel, and raised shareholder dividends.</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information contact:</strong><br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Carolyn Campbell, Alberta Wilderness Association,&nbsp;(403) 921-9519&nbsp;(cell)</p>
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<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/public-risk-oilsands-mines-clean-costs-must-removed/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
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http://www.aenweb.ca/media/public-risk-oilsands-mines-clean-costs-must-be-removed#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationEnvironmental Law & PolicyFresh WaterHazardous WasteMiningOil SandsRemediationWetlandsThu, 22 Jun 2017 18:32:14 +0000AEN5660 at http://www.aenweb.caAction Alert: Reinstate funding to the Canadian Environmental Networkhttp://www.aenweb.ca/action/action-alert-reinstate-funding-canadian-environmental-network
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<a href="http://rcen.ca/">Canadian Environmental Network (RCEN)</a> </div>
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<h3 class="rtecenter">
<strong>The Canadian Environmental Network and its provincial affiliate networks need your help!</strong></h3>
<p>
<span>Historically, the Canadian Environmental Network and its provincial affiliate networks received&nbsp;annual core funding from the Government of Canada. This was used to facilitate networking on&nbsp;environmental issues across the country, coordinate national and provincial issue-based&nbsp;caucuses, coordinate ENGO participation in federal public consultation processes, and maintain&nbsp;open lines of communication between ENGOs and the federal government.</span></p>
<p>
In 2011, as part of the across-the- board cuts to civil society organizations by the previous&nbsp;federal government, all federal funding to the RCEN and its provincial affiliate networks was&nbsp;cut. This left the national network and most of the affiliates functioning primarily on a&nbsp;voluntary basis with limited capacity to do their work.</p>
<p>
There is hope that the current government will provide for renewed funding in its upcoming&nbsp;budget. This funding is crucial for the survival of the national network and many of the&nbsp;provincial affiliate networks. A proposal has been submitted. It now needs strong and&nbsp;immediate support from environmental groups and individuals across the country.</p>
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<p>
This is where you come in!</p>
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Please take a few minutes to write to Prime Minister Trudeau and your MP telling them why&nbsp;you value the RCEN, your provincial affiliate network, or environmental networking at the&nbsp;national level in general. Feel free to use the template letter provided below. You can&nbsp;personalize it based on your experience or simply copy and paste.</p>
<p>
Prime Minister Trudeau&rsquo;s email is <span class="spamspan"><span class="u">justin [dot] trudeau</span> [at] <span class="d">parl [dot] gc [dot] ca</span></span> and you can find your MP&rsquo;s email here:</p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.parl.gc.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members" title="http://www.parl.gc.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members">http://www.parl.gc.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members</a></p>
<p>
Let&rsquo;s show our federal politicians that a strong, well-connected grassroots environmental&nbsp;community is essential to a strong Canada!</p>
<h3>
<strong>Draft Template Letter</strong></h3>
<p>
&nbsp;</p>
<p class="rteindent1">
<em>Dear Prime Minister Trudeau,</em></p>
<p class="rteindent1">
<em>I am writing to ask that annual core funding to the Canadian Environmental Network (RCEN) be&nbsp;<span>reinstated.</span></em></p>
<p class="rteindent1">
<em>Historically, the RCEN provided a crucial link between environmental groups across the country,&nbsp;<span>both large and small. This link was vital in helping communities address environmental issues&nbsp;</span><span>right across the country and ensuring a robust approach to the development of environmental&nbsp;</span><span>policy in Canada.</span></em></p>
<p class="rteindent1">
<em>Since funding was cut in 2011, the RCEN and most of its provincial affiliate networks have been&nbsp;<span>functioning primarily on a voluntary basis with limited capacity to do their work. This is not&nbsp;</span><span>acceptable. A strong, well-connected grassroots environmental community is essential to a&nbsp;</span><span>strong Canada. I urge you to reinstate core funding for this crucial work immediately.</span></em></p>
<p class="rteindent1">
<em>Sincerely,</em></p>
http://www.aenweb.ca/action/action-alert-reinstate-funding-canadian-environmental-network#commentsNews & AnnouncementsCanadian Environmental NetworkWed, 22 Feb 2017 22:53:51 +0000AEN5632 at http://www.aenweb.caHay River Basin Pollution Investigation – Report release eventhttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/hay-river-basin-pollution-investigation-%E2%80%93-report-release-event
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<a href="http://www.keepersofthewater.ca/">Keepers of the Water</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">12 Jan 2017</span> </div>
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<img alt="" src="/files/keepersofthewater.png" style="width: 100%;" /></p>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Keepers of the Water is working to address concerns brought forward by Traditional Ecological Knowledge holders in Northern Alberta with our partners, Dene Tha First Nation, Beaver First Nation, North Peace Tribal Council and Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>
At our Keepers IX Gathering in 2015, concerns were expressed about the clean-up of pipeline spills. Many thousands of spills have taken place in the Hay River Basin area; these have been spills of oil, diluent, produced water, and combinations of these. Local communities and Traditional Knowledge Holders are concerned about the clean up process after pipeline spills. While in some cases clean up has been certified as &lsquo;complete&rsquo; by the Alberta Energy Regulator, ecological effects and residual contamination persist after remediation.</p>
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The Hay River Basin Pollution Investigation brings together western scientists and Traditional Knowledge Holders to address these concerns that pipeline spills may not have been appropriately cleaned up. This area around Rainbow Lake and Zama, in the Hay River Basin northwest of High Level, is the only area in Alberta that does not have a Watershed Council, and the only place in Canada where there is offshore oil development inland. Wetland biologist Kevin Timoney and other scientists are working with Traditional Knowledge holders to investigate nine spill locations on Dene Tha traditional territory.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
<strong>Dr. Timoney will present the results of his work at Corbett Hall on February 2, 2017</strong>, in collaboration with the University of Alberta Research Network for Sustainability (Intersections), and the Faculty of Education. This work investigates the detectable results of pipeline breaks, the Alberta Energy Regulator&rsquo;s issuance of clean-up recovery dates, information provided by the AER, and the effects of these on the environment, Treaty rights, and Canadian society in general.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
Our Investigation also included community water monitoring training in two techniques, Environment Canada&rsquo;s Canadian Aquatic Biomonitoring Network, and the Bio-assay technique by Environmental Bio-detection Products (EBPI, Ontario). In addition to Dr. Timoney&rsquo;s report, the event will include words from Dene Tha First Nation Chief Joe Pastion, Keepers&rsquo; Executive Director Caleb Behn, the EBPI report, a presentation on the Investigation, and interviews with Traditional Knowledge Holders. We would like to acknowledge the support of the vascular herbarium at the University of Alberta.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information, or to register, please contact:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>
Jule Asterisk<br />
780 805-1709<br />
<span class="spamspan"><span class="u">keepers [dot] communications</span> [at] <span class="d">gmail [dot] com</span></span>&nbsp;</p>
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http://www.aenweb.ca/media/hay-river-basin-pollution-investigation-%E2%80%93-report-release-event#commentsNews & AnnouncementsFresh WaterPipelinesToxicsThu, 12 Jan 2017 07:00:00 +0000AEN5629 at http://www.aenweb.caProtected Areas over Paddocks for Alberta’s Endangered Caribouhttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/protected-areas-over-paddocks-alberta%E2%80%99s-endangered-caribou
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<a href="http://www.albertawilderness.ca">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">22 Dec 2016</span> </div>
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<p>
On December 17, the Alberta government issued a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.canadasbiz.net/bid_opportunities/2016/12/19/province/52/7453749-rfp---little-smoky-caribou-rearing-facility---design-site-selection-and-management-plan.html" style="font-size: 12px;">request</a><span style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;to build a fenced compound in the west central Little Smoky woodland caribou range, for captive female caribou to have calves. These calves will be released as yearlings into habitat that is becoming even more degraded by new energy-related disturbances and by logging. Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) believes that the Alberta government must act swiftly on its promises to apply strict operating limits on new surface disturbance in caribou ranges, and to establish extensive northwest Alberta protected areas, instead of relying on artificial predator controls.</span></p>
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<p>
&ldquo;The Alberta government&rsquo;s commitments to restore seismic lines and establish protected areas were positive announcements in June 2016,&rdquo; says Carolyn Campbell, AWA Conservation Specialist. &ldquo;Effectively implementing these commitments must now take priority over building caribou zoos. The expense and effort of an &lsquo;initially restored&rsquo; seismic line can still be wasted by a new disturbance allowed right over or near it, and the important high profile promises of protected areas need to be followed by actions.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Intensive energy and forestry footprint in caribou ranges stimulates deer, moose and predator populations beyond what caribou can tolerate. A pilot program to restore 70 linear kilometres of legacy seismic lines was announced by the Alberta government in October 2016 for the Little Smoky &ndash; A La Peche caribou range lands. However, a strict, transparent plan for linear features and access is still needed, to ensure that areas near or within &lsquo;initially restored&rsquo; lines remain free of future disturbance.</p>
<p>
AWA believes clear in-range surface disturbance limits are essential to fulfill Alberta&rsquo;s commitment to achieve self-sustaining caribou populations. Surface disturbance limits may mean that the energy industry will need to share existing infrastructure and pool leases, and the forest industry will need to share tenure outside of caribou range.</p>
<p>
AWA praised the government&rsquo;s November 2016 decision to allow energy companies to defer drilling in caribou ranges and has requested information on the actual impact to caribou from this voluntary deferral program.</p>
<p>
New protected areas promised in June 2016 for four northwest Alberta caribou ranges would bring Alberta much closer to achieving woodland caribou recovery strategy requirements in those ranges, as mandated under the federal&nbsp;<em>Species at Risk Act</em>. AWA believes that clear surface disturbance limits inside and outside these protected areas, compatible with caribou recovery, will still be necessary. Alberta&rsquo;s deadline to complete plans that effectively protect caribou habitat is October 2017.</p>
<p>
For more information:</p>
<p>
Carolyn Campbell, Alberta Wilderness Association, (403) 283-2025</p>
<p>
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/20161222_nr_awa_lsm_car_prot_areas_over_paddocks.pdf">Click here</a>&nbsp;for pdf version, including map illustrating Alberta government&rsquo;s June 2016 commitment to northwest Alberta caribou protected areas</p>
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<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/awa-news-release-protected-areas-paddocks-albertas-endangered-caribou/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
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http://www.aenweb.ca/media/protected-areas-over-paddocks-alberta%E2%80%99s-endangered-caribou#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationBiodiversity and WildlifeWilderness & ParksWildlife ProtectionFri, 23 Dec 2016 21:33:58 +0000AEN5625 at http://www.aenweb.caThe Pembina Institute reacts to Alberta Government announcement on 30% renewables targethttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/pembina-institute-reacts-alberta-government-announcement-30-renewables-target
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<a href="http://www.pembina.org/">Pembina Institute</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">14 Sep 2016</span> </div>
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<p>
CALGARY &mdash; Sara Hastings-Simon, Clean Energy Program Director at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to the Ministry of Environment and Parks&nbsp;<a href="http://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=434069BDC1E17-D70A-8BEE-63FDAE67F6CC37EA">announcement</a>.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;Albertans will benefit from an increase in renewables on the grid. The experience from countless jurisdictions shows that when deployed wisely renewables can reduce power bills for consumers &ndash; serving as a price hedge and protecting consumers from volatile commodity prices. Renewables further reduce the need for costly transmission and distribution upgrades, and improve grid resiliency.&rdquo;</p>
</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;The cost of solar technology has been falling dramatically for decades. The cost of electricity produced from solar technology has come down more than 90 per cent from 1983 to 2015. Wind power has dropped 65 per cent over the same time.&rdquo;</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;The renewable energy target will stimulate billions in investment in the province to build the electricity system of the 21st&nbsp;century, bringing jobs to Alberta. This target sends a clear signal to investors, providing the certainty required for investment.&rdquo;</p>
</blockquote>
<p class="rtecenter">
-30-</p>
<h3>
<strong>Contact</strong></h3>
<p>
<span class="spamspan"><span class="u">suzyt</span> [at] <span class="d">pembina [dot] org</span><span class="h"> (subject: AB%2030%25%20renewables%20target) </span><span class="t"> (Suzy Thompson)</span></span><br />
Communications Lead, Alberta, Pembina Institute<br />
587-585-4522</p>
<h3>
<strong>Background</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>
FAQ series #2&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pembina.org/reports/faq-2-renewables.pdf">Increasing renewables on Alberta&rsquo;s power grid</a></li>
<li>
Infographic&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pembina.org/pub/wind-solar-alberta">Wind and solar in Alberta</a></li>
<li>
Factsheet&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pembina.org/reports/true-price-of-wind-and-solar.pdf">The true price of wind and solar electricity generation</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.pembina.org/media-release/pembina-institute-reacts-to-alberta-government-announcement-on-30-renewables-target" target="_blank">Source: Pembina Institute</a> </div>
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http://www.aenweb.ca/media/pembina-institute-reacts-alberta-government-announcement-30-renewables-target#commentsNews & AnnouncementsPembina InstituteElectricity Generation & TransmissionEnergyRenewables & AlternativesWed, 14 Sep 2016 18:48:14 +0000AEN5607 at http://www.aenweb.caAccelerated coal phase-out would save Albertan liveshttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/accelerated-coal-phase-out-would-save-albertan-lives
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<h3><strong>Report from health associations and Pembina Institute outlines health benefits of a quick end to burning coal</strong></h3> </div>
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<a href="http://www.pembina.org/">Pembina Institute</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">14 Sep 2016</span> </div>
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<p style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: 12px;">CALGARY &mdash; Speeding the rate of the coal phase-out would benefit Albertans&rsquo; health and would even save lives,&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.pembina.org/pub/breathing-benefits" style="font-size: 12px;">according to a joint report</a><span style="font-size: 12px;">&nbsp;from the Pembina Institute, the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment,the Lung Association of Alberta and NWT, and the Asthma Society of Canada.</span></p>
<p>
<a href="http://www.pembina.org/pub/breathing-benefits"><em>Breathing in the benefits: How an accelerated coal phase-out can reduce health impacts and costs for Albertans</em></a>, highlights the benefits of shutting down Alberta&rsquo;s 18 coal-fired units in a stepwise fashion between now and the province&rsquo;s current 2030 target date.</p>
<p>
The report is based upon research conducted by Environment Canada and is a follow-up to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pembina.org/pub/2424"><em>A Costly Diagnosis</em></a><em>,&nbsp;</em>a 2013 collaborative study by the same heath associations on the effects coal burning has on the health of Albertans. That study called for an end to using coal fuel to generate electricity. Since then, the Alberta Government has committed to a phase-out by 2030 and the federal government has recently indicated it is considering an accelerated phase-out nationwide.</p>
<h4 style="clear: both;">
<strong>Quick facts</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>
Coal power causes 92 premature deaths in Alberta every year, and costs associated with health outcomes are as much as $460 million.</li>
<li>
An accelerated coal phase out as proposed by the Pembina Institute would more than double the health and cost benefits associated with the previous federal regulation in Alberta between 2015 and 2035:
<ul>
<li>
Such a phase out would prevent an estimated 600 premature deaths, 500 ER visits, and 80,000 asthma episodes.</li>
<li>
Avoided negative health outcomes would equal a value of $3 billion over the period.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h4 style="clear: both;">
<strong>Quotes</strong></h4>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;We live in a province where, every year, there are nearly as many people killed from coal power emissions as there are homicides. While we praised the government for announcing a phase out, it is now imperative we move quickly with an ambitious retirement schedule.&rdquo;<br />
<em>&mdash; Joe Vipond, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment</em></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;Doctors agree that coal power is a health hazard from start to finish. By speeding up the rate of the phase out, Alberta could spare as many as 600 lives and save $3 billion in associated costs.&rdquo;<br />
<em>&mdash; Leigh Allard, President &amp; CEO, The Lung Association, Alberta and NWT</em></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;Alberta has come a long way from environmental laggard to being among the group of countries committed to a coal phase-out by 2030. Its leadership has been recognized by the federal government and it is paving the way for a national coal phase-out.&rdquo;<br />
<em>&mdash; Andrew Read, Senior Analyst, Pembina Institute</em></p>
</blockquote>
<p class="rtecenter">
-30-</p>
<p>
Visit the Pembina Institute&rsquo;s website to download a copy of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pembina.org/pub/breathing-benefits"><em>Breathing In the Benefits</em></a></p>
<h3 style="clear: both;">
<strong>Contact</strong></h3>
<p>
Suzy Thompson<br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">Communications Lead, Alberta, Pembina Institute</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;"><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">suzyt</span> [at] <span class="d">pembina [dot] org</span></span>&nbsp;</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12px;">403-269-3344 ex 121&nbsp;|&nbsp;c: 587-585-4522</span></p>
<h3 style="clear: both;">
<strong>Background</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>
<strong>Report:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pembina.org/pub/2424">A Costly Diagnosis</a>&nbsp;(2013)</li>
<li>
<strong>Briefing note:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pembina.org/pub/early-coal-phase-out-does-not-require-compensation">Early coal phase-out does not require compensation</a>&nbsp;(2015)</li>
</ul>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.pembina.org/media-release/accelerated-coal-phase-out-would-save-albertan-lives" target="_blank">Source: Pembina Institute</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/accelerated-coal-phase-out-would-save-albertan-lives#commentsNews & AnnouncementsPembina InstituteAir QualityAtmosphereClimate ChangeCoalElectricity Generation & TransmissionWed, 14 Sep 2016 18:06:15 +0000AEN5603 at http://www.aenweb.caCalgary Region Airshed Zone – Photo Contest http://www.aenweb.ca/content/calgary-region-airshed-zone-%E2%80%93-photo-contest
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.craz.ca/">Calgary Region Airshed Zone</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
<img alt="Calgary Region Airshed Zone — Photo Contest Poster" src="http://www.aenweb.ca/files/craz_photo_contest.jpg" style="width:100%;" /></p>
<!--break-->
<h3>
&ldquo;Air: Make The Invisible Visible&rdquo;&nbsp;</h3>
<h3>
&nbsp;</h3>
<h4>
Categories</h4>
<ul>
<li>
Adult&nbsp;</li>
<li>
Youth (Under 18)&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h4>
Themes</h4>
<ul>
<li>
Weather&nbsp;</li>
<li>
Nature&nbsp;</li>
<li>
Urban/Industry&nbsp;</li>
<li>
People&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h4>
Submission Date</h4>
<ul>
<li>
July 15, 2016-&nbsp;May 15, 2017&nbsp;</li>
<li>
Email submissions to:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Tanya.carlson%40calgary.ca"><span class="spamspan"><span class="u">Tanya [dot] carlson</span> [at] <span class="d">calgary [dot] ca</span></span></a></li>
</ul>
<h4>
Eligibility</h4>
<p>
Contest is open to all amateur photographers that reside or work within the CRAZ boundaries (boundaries found on the CRAZ website&nbsp;<a href="http://www.craz.ca/" title="www.craz.ca">www.craz.ca</a>). Entries are not limited to those taken this calendar year. Photos must have been taken by the entrant themselves. CRAZ employees, board and committee members are not eligible.&nbsp;</p>
<h4>
Publication and Prizes</h4>
<p>
CRAZ reserves the exclusive right to publish or use any entry in CRAZ promotional and social media material.&nbsp;There is a limit of three photographic entries per photographer. CRAZ appreciates all entries, but only contest winners will be contacted. No names of persons in photographs will be used in CRAZ publications of photos.&nbsp;</p>
<h4>
Format</h4>
<p>
Digital entries may be submitted electronically as jpeg files through email. Digital files should be at least 1600 pixels wide for a horizontal image and 1600 pixels tall for a vertical image. Photos may have tonal or colour correction, however content alteration is not acceptable. Photos must not have been altered in any way other than necessary burning, dodging, or cropping.&nbsp;</p>
<h4>
Entries and Identification</h4>
<ul>
<li>
Adult: First place $200 and runner-up $100 for each of the themes&nbsp;</li>
<li>
Youth: First place $200 and runner-up $100 for each of the themes&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://craz.ca/craz-photo-contest/" target="_blank">Source: Calgary Region Airshed Zone</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/content/calgary-region-airshed-zone-%E2%80%93-photo-contest#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAir QualityAtmosphereWed, 14 Sep 2016 17:41:58 +0000AEN5608 at http://www.aenweb.caCastle Forests in Peril; Restoration Requiredhttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/castle-forests-peril-restoration-required
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.ccwc.ab.ca">Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition</a> </div>
<div class="field-item even">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-date field-field-release-date">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<span class="date-display-single">7 Sep 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<h1>
&nbsp;</h1>
<p>
Global Forest Watch Canada&rsquo;s (GFWC) newly released study indicates that the remaining intact forests in the proposed Castle Provincial Park have been significantly reduced.&nbsp; Between 2000 and 2015, 76% of the forests became disturbed landscapes and are no longer secure habitat and watersheds.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;As a result of human use, there has been extensive disturbance and fragmentation of the forest ecosystem and wildlife habitat in the Castle,&rdquo; said Andrea Hlady, President of the Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition. &ldquo;Intact forest landscapes, so critical to the health of our parks and watersheds have been reduced. The Government of Alberta curtailed logging in the Castle parks last September, taking a vital first step to restoration.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;There is strong scientific evidence and support for banning off-highway vehicles in sensitive landscapes and AWA believes they have no place in Alberta&rsquo;s provincial parks&rdquo; said Joanna Skrajny, Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) Conservation Specialist.&nbsp; &ldquo;Allowing OHV recreation and other destructive activities to continue is a disaster for the ecological health of the Castle. The GFWC analysis highlights active restoration of the Castle Parks is required to meet the full ecological potential of this landscape.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
The area is in high demand and has a long history of multiple uses, including commercial forestry operations, oil and gas development, grazing, and recreation. The Castle is one of the most biologically diverse areas in Alberta, with more than 200 rare or at-risk species including whitebark pine, wolverine, bull trout, and westslope cutthroat trout. The announced Castle protected areas encompass core Grizzly conservation zones and are important movement corridors for large mammals, including grizzly bear. The area contains significant watersheds, supplying water downstream to many Alberta communities, including Lethbridge and 70 other municipalities.</p>
<p>
Joanna Skrajny of the AWA continued, &ldquo;So far, the Alberta Government has given no indication that off-highway vehicles will be banned in the Castle, despite the fact Premier Notley committed to fully protecting the Castle Wilderness Area in her 2015 election platform.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
One year ago in September 2015, the Government of Alberta announced plans to designate the Castle Wilderness Area as a Castle Provincial Park and a Castle Wildland Provincial Park and management planning for the Castle Parks is presently underway.</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information:</strong></p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, &quot;“DejaVu Sans”&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">Andrea Hlady</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, &quot;“DejaVu Sans”&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, &quot;“DejaVu Sans”&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">403.875.8442</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, &quot;“DejaVu Sans”&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">Joanna Skrajny</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, &quot;“DejaVu Sans”&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">Alberta Wilderness Association</span></td>
<td>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, &quot;“DejaVu Sans”&quot;, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">403.283.2025</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
&nbsp;</p>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/castle-forests-peril-restoration-required/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/castle-forests-peril-restoration-required#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationCastle-Crown Wilderness CoalitionBiodiversity and WildlifeForest RestorationForestsWilderness & ParksThu, 08 Sep 2016 04:00:00 +0000AEN5605 at http://www.aenweb.caStill Waiting for the Castle Parkshttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/still-waiting-castle-parks
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.ccwc.ab.ca/">Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition</a> </div>
<div class="field-item even">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.y2y.net">Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative</a> </div>
<div class="field-item even">
<a href="http://www.cpaws-southernalberta.org/">CPAWS Southern Alberta</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-date field-field-release-date">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<span class="date-display-single">6 Sep 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
<em><span style="font-size: 12px;">Pincher Creek, Alberta &mdash;&nbsp;</span></em><span style="font-size: 12px;">On September 4, 2015, the Government of Alberta announced its intention to fully protect the Castle area in southwestern Alberta as a Provincial and Wildland Provincial Park.</span></p>
<p>
&ldquo;Albertans have asked for the Castle to be protected for more than four decades. In that span of time, it has been logged, drilled and damaged by off-highway vehicles but it is still an extraordinary place. Prioritizing restoration of the Castle is long overdue,&rdquo; says Andrea Hlady of the Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition (CCWC).</p>
<p>
&ldquo;A full year later, we&rsquo;re still waiting,&rdquo; says Joanna Skrajny of Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA). &ldquo;And, unfortunately, many things that have been damaging the Castle for years, including off-highway vehicle use, continue.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;We were encouraged by the decision to protect the Castle; we&rsquo;re anxious now to ensure that the ecological values of the region are given priority,&rdquo; says Stephen Legault of Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y).&nbsp; &ldquo;The Castle could be the jewel in the crown of Alberta&rsquo;s parks system but before that can happen we need to put an end to off-highway vehicle use in the parks. Ending logging was a good first step; now we encourage the government to finish the job and fully protect the Castle.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;Albertans want parks for quiet recreation so that wildlife and wilderness can thrive. Off-highway vehicle use is incompatible with those values,&rdquo; says Katie Morrison of Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS S. AB).</p>
<p>
The Castle area, southwest of Pincher Creek, has the highest biodiversity in the province outside of Waterton Lakes National Park, and is an essential headwaters area for the Oldman River basin. The Castle also contains critical habitat for the threatened westslope cutthroat trout, and is recognized as core grizzly bear habitat. Conservationists and local citizens were delighted when the Castle Park announcement was made, and continue to pressure the government to follow through on its commitment to fully protect the area.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;It has been a year since the Castle parks were announced,&rdquo; says Andrea Hlady, CCWC President. &ldquo;We&rsquo;re calling on the government to pass legislation and manage the proposed Castle Parks as protected areas. The longer we wait the more difficult and expensive it will be to restore the Castle to the standard that Albertans expect in their provincial parks.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information:</strong></p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Andrea Hlady</td>
<td>
Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition</td>
<td>
403 875-8442</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Joanna Skrajny</td>
<td>
Alberta Wilderness Association</td>
<td>
403 283-2025</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Stephen Legault</td>
<td>
Yellowstone to Yukon&nbsp;Conservation Initiative</td>
<td>
403 688-2964</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Katie Morrison</td>
<td>
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society</td>
<td>
403 232-6686</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>
&nbsp;</p>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/still-waiting-castle-parks/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/still-waiting-castle-parks#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationCanadian Parks and Wilderness SocietyCastle-Crown Wilderness CoalitionBiodiversity and WildlifeWilderness & ParksWed, 07 Sep 2016 05:50:00 +0000AEN5604 at http://www.aenweb.ca OHVs and the Castle Parks – Are They In or Out?http://www.aenweb.ca/media/ohvs-and-castle-parks-%E2%80%93-are-they-or-out
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
<div class="field-item even">
<a href="http://www.ccwc.ab.ca">Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-date field-field-release-date">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<span class="date-display-single">19 Jul 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
That&rsquo;s the crucial conservation question left begging in a newly-released document on what Alberta Environment and Parks expects in a draft management plan for the Castle Parks. Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) and the Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition (CCWC) would like the Minister to answer the question definitively and commit unequivocally to the management plan&rsquo;s vision: &ldquo;Conservation of nature will be the primary, overriding objective of both parks.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;On the one hand, the proposal contains a number of encouraging statements,&rdquo; says Joanna Skrajny, AWA Conservation Specialist. &ldquo;For example, conservation and headwaters protection are intended to be the top two management priorities; they animate the stress placed in the document on protecting critical westslope cutthroat trout habitat.&rdquo; Environmental leadership and evidence based decision-making are admirably placed at the top of the list of principles intended to guide the plan. &ldquo;But, these positive elements,&rdquo; she adds, &ldquo;are fundamentally irreconcilable with the document&rsquo;s later suggestion that off-highway vehicles should be allowed in both parks. You cannot seriously prioritize conservation and headwaters protection if you allow motorized recreation in the Castle.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
The CCWC, a local, grassroots organization that has been fighting for protection of the Castle Wilderness for decades, joins AWA in this call. &ldquo;Eighty-six percent of Albertans prioritize non-motorized recreation and the majority of the public believes that OHVs have no place in provincial parks. It pushes out other users and harms wildlife,&rdquo; adds Peter Lee of the CCWC. &ldquo;Considering that Waterton and all of our mountain parks are bursting at the seams with visitors, it seems like a no-brainer that Albertans are searching for and would be grateful for more of the national park type experience.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
The Castle Provincial Park and Wildland Provincial Park were announced on September 4, 2015 by the Government of Alberta. Sadly, despite public outcry and substantial consultation, the recommended management intentions outlined in the document released today &ndash; allowing OHVs, recreational hunting, and cattle grazing in the parks &ndash; have barely changed &nbsp;compared&nbsp; to what the department proposed more than 10 months ago.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;While this is disappointing and frustrating,&rdquo; says Dr. Ian Urquhart, editor of AWA&rsquo;s magazine&nbsp;Wildlands Advocate, &ldquo;there is promise where this document says the Minister still may decide to modify the recommended management intentions to prohibit OHVs and hunting in the parks. It&rsquo;s time for the Minister to decide once and for all whether OHVs are in or out of the Castle parks. Conservation and a truly modern view of Alberta parks demand that she rejects the recommendation to allow OHVs in the Castle.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
<strong>For more information:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
Joanna Skrajny, Alberta Wilderness Association, 403-283-2025</li>
<li>
Peter Lee, Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition, 780-914-6241</li>
<li>
Ian Urquhart, Alberta Wilderness Association, 780-937-4692</li>
</ul>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/20160718_doc_draft_castle_table_of_contents.pdf" target="_blank">Castle Parks Management Plan Annotated Table of Contents</a> </div>
<div class="field-item even">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/ohvs-castle-parks/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/ohvs-and-castle-parks-%E2%80%93-are-they-or-out#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationCastle-Crown Wilderness CoalitionBiodiversity and WildlifeOutdoor RecreationWilderness & ParksWildlife ProtectionTue, 19 Jul 2016 16:14:56 +0000AEN5588 at http://www.aenweb.caCrackdown on Destruction of Public Landshttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/crackdown-destruction-public-lands
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-date field-field-release-date">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<span class="date-display-single">13 Jul 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
<span>A recent &nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/orders/Orders_in_Council/2016/716/2016_204.pdf" target="_blank">Order in Council</a><span>&nbsp;will allow enforcement officials to issue violation tickets under the&nbsp;</span><span>Public Lands Administration Regulation</span><span>. Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) appreciates measures which provide officials with enforcement capabilities to protect our public lands.</span></p>
<p>
&ldquo;Enforcement officials are now able to write violation tickets on the spot, rather than sending people to court months from when the offense occurred,&rdquo; says Andrea Johancsik, AWA Conservation Specialist. &ldquo;This Order in Council will help deter further destruction, mismanagement, and lawless behaviour in Alberta&rsquo;s public lands &ndash; it likely won&rsquo;t take people long to learn when they have to pay fines.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Enforcement of environmental regulations in public lands is an ongoing issue along Alberta&rsquo;s Eastern Slopes. &ldquo;AWA welcomes the much-needed enforcement capacity this order provides and adds to the strength of rulings like the&nbsp;<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/2015-05-07-awa-news-release-record-setting-1500-fines-levied-against-ohv-joyriders/" target="_blank">$1500 fine</a>&nbsp;levied last year against OHV joyriders in the Clearwater River,&rdquo; says Joanna Skrajny, AWA Conservation Specialist.</p>
<p>
The Order in Council was announced July 7, 2016 and will come into effect 30 days after it is filed under the&nbsp;Regulations Act.&nbsp;It specifies 41 penalties which are payable in respect of a contravention of a provision of the&nbsp;Public Lands Administration Regulation,&nbsp;which range from $100 &ndash; 500. For example, a 250 dollar violation ticket can be issued for an individual who will &lsquo;damage, deface, or destroy any resource within a public land recreation area&rsquo;.</p>
<p>
Other offenses for which officers can now issue violation tickets include sections 197(1) &lsquo;A person using a public land recreation area shall keep the land and resources on it in the same condition as that in which they found them&rsquo; and 198 &lsquo;no person shall interfere with the right of others to the quiet and peaceful enjoyment of any public land recreation area unless such interference is incidental to an activity or use of public land that is the subject of a disposition&rsquo; of the&nbsp;Public Lands Administration Regulation.</p>
<p>
For more information contact:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Andrea Johancsik, Alberta Wilderness Association, (403) 283-2025</li>
<li>
Joanna Skrajny, &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alberta Wilderness Association, (403) 283-2025</li>
</ul>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/news-release-crackdown-destruction-public-lands/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/crackdown-destruction-public-lands#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationBiodiversity and WildlifeOutdoor RecreationWilderness & ParksWildlife ProtectionThu, 14 Jul 2016 01:00:16 +0000AEN5586 at http://www.aenweb.caPembina reacts to legislation being tabled to implement Alberta’s Climate Leadership Planhttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/pembina-reacts-legislation-being-tabled-implement-alberta%E2%80%99s-climate-leadership-plan
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-release-subtitle">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<h3><strong>Bill 20 includes the framework for a carbon levy in Alberta</strong></h3> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.pembina.org/">Pembina Institute</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-date field-field-release-date">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<span class="date-display-single">24 May 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6em;">EDMONTON &mdash; Ed Whittingham, executive director at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to climate change legislation being introduced in the Alberta Legislature.</span></p>
<p>
&ldquo;Today&rsquo;s introduction of legislation to implement the Alberta Climate Leadership Plan is a momentous occasion. For far too long plans to address climate change have been about talk. Now we are seeing action.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;Environmentalists, economists and a growing list of political leaders agree; a carbon price is the most effective way to reduce greenhouse gas pollution that causes climate change.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;The levy will be used to rebate low and middle income Albertans and allow for investment in energy efficiency, green infrastructure, renewable energy and technology, while protecting consumers from volatile energy costs and creating jobs. It&rsquo;s what Alberta needs in order to do our fair share on climate change and stay globally competitive.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
[30]</p>
<h3>
<strong>Contact</strong></h3>
<p>
<span class="spamspan"><span class="u">kirkh</span> [at] <span class="d">pembina [dot] org</span><span class="t"> (Kirk Heuser)</span></span><br />
Communications Lead, Pembina Institute&nbsp;<br />
587-585-4522</p>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
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<a href="http://www.pembina.org/media-release/pembina-reacts-to-legislation-being-tabled-to-implement-alberta-s-climate-leadership" target="_blank">Source: Pembina Institute</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/pembina-reacts-legislation-being-tabled-implement-alberta%E2%80%99s-climate-leadership-plan#commentsNews & AnnouncementsPembina InstituteClimate ChangeEnergyEnvironmental Law & PolicyWed, 25 May 2016 04:11:00 +0000AEN5576 at http://www.aenweb.caAbuse of Sensitive Castle Landscapes Not Defensiblehttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/abuse-sensitive-castle-landscapes-not-defensible
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/castlecrownwildernesscoalition/">Castle-Crown Wilderness Coaltion</a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.albertawilderness.ca">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
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<span class="date-display-single">18 May 2016</span> </div>
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</div>
<p>
Illegal use during the recent province-wide OHV ban is a symptom of ongoing abuse within the area that will become the Castle parks. A recent stewardship report by the Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition (CCWC) reveals an incident requiring RCMP intervention when individuals illegally entered an area closed to Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) use according to the Castle Access Management Plan. This was particularly egregious given the province-wide OHV ban at the time. &nbsp;The CCWC and Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) are requesting support from both the OHV community and the Government of Alberta to permanently ban OHVs in the newly designated Castle Parks.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;This incident is just one more example of the continuing disregard by motorized recreationists not only of the existing Castle Access Management Plan but also of the recent explicit province-wide closure of all Public Lands to these vehicles,&rdquo; says James Tweedie, CCWC President. &ldquo;A ban on OHV use in the Castle would not only protect the area, but would also make enforcement easier and cheaper.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;We are asking for the OHV ban to be extended permanently in order to protect the Castle Parks from further OHV damage.&nbsp; We are requesting this closure be put in place before the upcoming long weekend, which traditionally sees the most OHV vandalism of any period of the year,&rdquo; adds James Tweedie. &ldquo;The risk to the provincially-protected Castle Parks from continued OHV vandalism is not just from fires, but from further degradation and destruction of species at risk habitat including significant grizzly bear and native trout habitat.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
&ldquo;The Castle contains vital habitat for many wild species and its headwaters provide water that many Albertans depend on,&rdquo; says Joanna Skrajny, AWA Conservation Specialist.&rdquo;Sensitive headwaters landscapes are simply not capable of supporting motorized recreation and the enforcement to manage lawless recreationists is more than we can afford. OHVs must not be permitted in the Castle, allowing motorized recreation is &nbsp;simply not scientifically defensible. &rdquo;</p>
<p>
OHV use has high impacts on riparian zones and wetlands because of soft soils and the fragile nature of stream beds. The OHV trails themselves deliver sediment to streams when it rains, which can kill westslope cutthroat trout eggs and stress adult fish, decreasing their chances of recovery. OHVs driven through stream beds or other waterways disturb aquatic habitat, destroying the ability for fish to reproduce.</p>
<h3>
For more information:</h3>
<ul>
<li>
James Tweedie, Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition, 403.628.2422</li>
<li>
Joanna Skrajny, Alberta Wilderness Association, 403.483.4683</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/abuse-sensitive-castle-landscapes-not-defensible/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/abuse-sensitive-castle-landscapes-not-defensible#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationCastle-Crown Wilderness CoalitionBiodiversity and WildlifeOutdoor RecreationWilderness & ParksWildlife ProtectionThu, 19 May 2016 04:00:00 +0000AEN5575 at http://www.aenweb.caPembina reacts to Bill 18http://www.aenweb.ca/media/pembina-reacts-bill-18
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<h3><strong>New Act is intended to ensure independent environmental monitoring</strong></h3> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
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<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.pembina.org/">Pembina Institute</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-date field-field-release-date">
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<span class="date-display-single">17 May 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
<span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6em; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">EDMONTON &mdash; Andrew Read, technical and policy analyst at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to the introduction of Bill 18 today in the Alberta Legislature.</span></p>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;This new Act will facilitate more responsive monitoring results for all of Alberta by providing the Chief Scientist and their Advisory Panel the ability to report publicly. We all benefit from a clean environment, and quickly delivered monitoring results allow us to ensure we maintain a healthy environment as our population and industry grows.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;These changes remove some of the potential political interference that was included in the previous government&rsquo;s bill. That bill failed to ensure the Alberta Environmental Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Agency was an independent entity free from influence by government or industry, or to ensure information presented is based on scientific merit and not diluted or delayed by politics.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>
&ldquo;Albertans should expect to see more applicable and responsive information being provided to help them understand the condition of the environment in their communities.&rdquo;</p>
</blockquote>
<p class="rtecenter">
[30]</p>
<h3>
<strong>Contact</strong></h3>
<p>
<span class="spamspan"><span class="u">kirkh</span> [at] <span class="d">pembina [dot] org</span><span class="t"> (Kirk Heuser)</span></span><br />
Communications Lead, Pembina Institute&nbsp;<br />
587-585-4522</p>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<a href="http://www.pembina.org/media-release/pembina-reacts-to-bill-18" target="_blank">Source: Pembina Institute</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/pembina-reacts-bill-18#commentsNews & AnnouncementsPembina InstituteAir QualityAtmosphereBiodiversity and WildlifeClimate ChangeEnergyEnvironmental AssessmentEnvironmental ScienceFresh WaterOil SandsWater QualityTue, 17 May 2016 22:56:29 +0000AEN5573 at http://www.aenweb.caGravel Mining Puts Water at Riskhttp://www.aenweb.ca/media/gravel-mining-puts-water-risk
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-organization-web">
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<a href="http://www.albertawilderness.ca/">Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
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<span class="date-display-single">17 May 2016</span> </div>
</div>
</div>
<p>
Alberta&rsquo;s gravel mining policy significantly erodes environmental protection by allowing gravel mining to occur in the 1:100 year floodplain of rivers. Documents obtained by private citizens in a Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) request reveal that Alberta&rsquo;s internal sand and gravel mining policy was developed and approved in 2011 in a secretive process that ignored expert scientific advice and excluded the public.</p>
<p>
Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) believes the Alberta government must conduct a science-based, transparent review of the current sand and gravel policy so that mining does not occur within the 1:100 year floodplain and minimizes water and wildlife impacts.</p>
<p>
&ldquo;Gravel mining in the 1:100 year floodplain poses significant and long lasting environmental risks to local water quality, groundwater, and wildlife,&rdquo; says Joanna Skrajny, AWA Conservation Specialist. &ldquo;Intact floodplains are critical to provide natural flood and drought mitigation, as well as clean drinking water and habitat for terrestrial and aquatic species.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
The Surface Water Body Aggregate Policy was approved in January 2011 without public input or legislative review. AWA notes that this policy has never been made available to the public and the process in which it was developed &ndash; resulting in weakened environmental protection &ndash; represents a serious failure on behalf of the government to represent the public interest.</p>
<p>
Dale Christian, a landowner in the Red Deer River watershed, says: &ldquo;We aren&rsquo;t opposed to all gravel mining, but my community, my family, and our working farm rely entirely on groundwater connected through the floodplain; the health of our drinking water depends on healthy aquatic ecosystems. Currently, our communities and homes are at risk without science based protection being placed on gravel mining activities in floodplains.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Donna Mendelsohn, a landowner in the Athabasca River watershed, adds: &ldquo;It&rsquo;s critically important to communities that Alberta&rsquo;s sand and gravel resources be managed more responsibly to safeguard aquatic ecosystems. I hope that our government will take the steps necessary to protect our river corridors and water bodies, including floodplains, wetlands and aquifers, from gravel mining.&rdquo;</p>
<p>
Prior to the current policy, there was a working understanding among provincial regulatory agencies that would reject new applications for aggregate extraction activities within active river channels and the 1:100 year floodplain zone. The existing policy is significantly weaker than previous practices. Concerns raised by provincial biologists, such as the need to acknowledge the ecological impacts of floodplain mining, were not addressed in the 2011 policy.</p>
<h3>
<strong>For more information:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>
Joanna Skrajny, Alberta Wilderness Association (403) 283-2025</li>
<li>
Dale Christian (403) 728-3447</li>
<li>
Donna Mendelsohn (780) 584-2347</li>
</ul>
<p>
A background document on the gravel mining policy is available here:<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20160517_bg_awa_gravel_mining-1.pdf">&nbsp;AWA Background Document on Gravel Mining Policy</a></p>
<p>
The complete FOIP can be accessed here as a pdf in multiple parts:<br />
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20141110_rp_foip_aggregatepolicy_part1.pdf">Aggregate Mining Policy FOIP Part 1</a><br />
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20141110_rp_foip_aggregatepolicy_part2.pdf">Aggregate Mining Policy FOIP Part 2</a><br />
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20141110_rp_foip_aggregatepolicy_part3.pdf">Aggregate Mining Policy FOIP Part 3</a><br />
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20141110_rp_foip_aggregatepolicy_part4.pdf">Aggregate Mining Policy FOIP Part 4</a><br />
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20141110_rp_foip_aggregatepolicy_part5.pdf">Aggregate Mining Policy FOIP Part 5</a><br />
<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20141110_rp_foip_aggregatepolicy_part6.pdf">Aggregate Mining Policy FOIP Part 6</a></p>
<p>
For a pdf of the news release, click here:&nbsp;<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/20160517_nr_awa_gravel_mining_foip-1.pdf">AWA Gravel Mining FOIP News Release</a></p>
<div class="field field-type-link field-field-release-link">
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<a href="https://albertawilderness.ca/gravel-mining-policy-puts-water-risk/" target="_blank">Source: Alberta Wilderness Association</a> </div>
</div>
</div>
http://www.aenweb.ca/media/gravel-mining-puts-water-risk#commentsNews & AnnouncementsAlberta Wilderness AssociationCentral Athabasca Stewardship SocietyFresh WaterGroundwaterRiparian AreasWater & Watershed ManagementWater QualityWetlandsTue, 17 May 2016 16:21:13 +0000AEN5572 at http://www.aenweb.ca